Military sexual trauma survivor to speak in Novato

Victoria Sanders of Novato was raped while serving in the Army in 1975 and has found solace in crusading for herself and others who have survived military sexual trauma, testifying before Congress, working with individuals and, now, speaking about sexual assault at an upcoming Novato event.

The former Army private visited Washington, D.C. July 19 and testified before the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health, giving the members specific suggestions on how the VA could best care for survivors of sexual assault.

"They wanted us to talk about how the VA treats patients with military sexual trauma history," Sanders said. "I was invited to speak along with a woman from the Marines, a man from the Navy and a woman from the Air Force."

Though the four had never spoken before, they were unanimous in their criticism of the VA's treatment, Sanders said.

The veteran said, "We were shocked when they (the committee members) asked us, 'What would you do to fix it?'"

The four veterans, again in agreement, suggested satellite clinics, more funding for vet centers and fee-based therapy, Sanders said.

Now returned from her travels, Sanders will give a talk about sexual assault in the military at 1 p.m. Sept. 21 in the Millworks Community Room at 900 Reichert Ave. above Whole Foods in downtown Novato.

"I'll be telling my story, talking about what I've been doing for survivors of military sexual assault, and will share some suggestions about what people can do to help," Sanders said.

The event is sponsored by the Novato branch of the American Association of University Women. To reserve a spot or for more information, call Sue Potter, 892-5569.